Easy Bitter Melon Stir-fry
This is my go-to method for cooking bitter melon at home so it's not too bitter and tastes delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-large bitter melon
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- 1 pinch MSG (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic (about 3 cloves)
Instructions
- Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, then cut into ¼-inch thick slices.
- Add the salt to a medium bowl of warm water (about 2 ½ cups) and stir to dissolve the salt. Soak the bitter melon for at least 20 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain (I usually spin the bittermelon in a salad spinner)
- To a small bowl, combine the water, chicken bouillon powder, cornstarch, water, sugar, and MSG.
- Heat a wok over medium heat until it's hot. Add the oil and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until the garlic smells fragrant. Don't let the garlic change color.
- Add the bitter melon and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add 3 tablespoons of hot water and cook for 3-4 minutes until the water evaporates.
- Give the sauce mixture a stir then pour it into the wok. Cook until the sauce thickens then transfer to a serving dish. Enjoy!